The New Job Search: Where to Find the Job of Your Dreams

There once was a time where finding a new job was as easy as opening up the Classified section of the newspaper, filling out an application at the place you want to work, or sending out resumes via mail. Today, those options are fewer and far between thanks to the reduction of newspapers, the lack of resume review, and the general loss of jobs thanks to the Great Recession. However, don’t feel discouraged, because there is still a way for you to find the job of your dreams. You just need to journey on a new set of roads to get there. Here are a few options to consider in your job search.

Create Your Own Website — Regardless if your a biochemical engineer or a diner cook, a website that highlights your strengths is an important part of your job search in today’s world. The good news is you don’t have to spend much money to make it happen. Companies like Weebly, Blogger, and WordPress offer free ways to create a site name and design the website that fits your personality. You can even design pages to post your resume and set up a blog to discuss items related to your current or desired profession. The only money you may need to dole out is for the creation of a domain name for your website. This can cost well under $20 for a year and can be registered at sites like GoDaddy.

Online Job Sites — I mentioned the disappearance of the classified section in newspapers at the beginning of this post. The loss of these printed pages has been replaced with online job sites like Monster.com, CareerBuilder, and jobserious.com. These places allow you to submit your resume for review by companies looking for new employees. You can also search for jobs and apply online, or set up notifications that alert you to desired jobs in the areas you selected. Those looking for new types of freelance positions can search these job sites and also look at places like Elance or oDesk.

Social Sites — Sites like Facebook and Twitter aren’t just for updating everyone on your dinner out or pictures of your children. These social sites can also be used to promote yourself to prospective employers. Both Facebook and Twitter allow you to set up a page specifically designed for a profession where you can comment on current issues and promote your brand. The only thing you need to do is make sure to keep it professional. Another site to consider is LinkedIn. You can’t play Bejeweled on this social media site, but you can submit your resume, search for jobs, and follow those who are in your desired profession. Out of all the social sites, LinkedIn is the best one to highlight your skills.

Craigslist — This site doesn’t just allow you to sell your lawn mower. It also has a classified section where you can review job ads. The downside to Craigslist is there is no way to tell if an ad is legitimate or not. Use your best judgment and perform some research before you decide to respond to a job request on this site.